Asics Gel-Cumulus 27 Review

Welcome back to Flawless Shoe Reviews! Today, we’re diving into a detailed comparison of two fan-favourite shoes in the Asics lineup: the Gel Cumulus 27 and its predecessor, the Gel Cumulus 26. These two models are known for being versatile, dependable, and great for everything from daily training to longer recovery runs.

But with some key changes to the upper, a slight tweak in stability, and a slightly heavier build, is the Gel Cumulus 27 really worth the upgrade? Stick around as I break it all down for you and even touch on how these changes may benefit different types of runners and medical conditions.

The Upper: Fit, Comfort, and Functionality

Let’s start with the Gel Cumulus 27’s upper because this is where Asics made some noticeable upgrades.

1. Roomier Toe Box
   One of the first things I noticed was the extra room in the toe box. If you felt the Cumulus 26 was a bit snug or needed to size up, you’ll love the adjustment in the 27. The reduced toe spring eliminates that “shortened” feeling you might have experienced in the older model.
2. Premium Tongue Design
   Asics switched out the gusseted cloth tongue from the 26 for a premium padded gusseted tongue in the 27. It feels softer, stays in place better, and adds to the overall comfort.
3. Heel Counter and Cup
   Another improvement is the addition of a heel tab and extra padding inside the heel cup. It feels more plush and hugs your foot without feeling overly restrictive. Plus, the heel profile is slightly lower, reducing pressure on sensitive areas, making it ideal for runners with Achilles tendonitis or even Haglund’s deformity.

Top Tip: If you’re into stable neutral shoes but prefer a slightly more luxurious fit, check out our review of the Asics Gel Nimbus 27.

Check the price on Road Runner Sports:

Midsole & Cushioning: What’s New?

Let’s talk about the heart of any running shoe—the midsole. The Cumulus 26 and Cumulus 27 feature the beloved FF Blast+ cushioning, but the newer model has a small yet impactful tweak.

1. Stack Height
   The Cumulus 27 slightly reduces the stack height compared to the 26, maintaining the familiar 8mm drop:
   • Cumulus 27: 37.5mm in the heel / 29.5mm in the forefoot
   • Cumulus 26: 39mm in the heel / 31mm in the forefoot
   While these changes might seem subtle, they result in a more grounded feel, making the 27 feel slightly more stable than the 26.
2. Weight
   The Cumulus 27 weighs in at 264g (Men’s US 9) compared to the 254g of the Cumulus 26. That’s a minor increase, but it doesn’t negatively impact performance. In fact, the slightly broader midfoot adds to the stability.

Stability Enhancements: A Subtle but Notable Shift

If you’re someone who values a bit of stability in their shoes, the Cumulus 27 has a slight edge over its predecessor. Here’s why:

• Broader Midfoot: The 27 has a slightly wider midfoot than the 26, which increases the base of support and makes it feel more secure underfoot.
• Sidewalls & Heel Counter: The sidewalls on the inside and outside of the heel cup are more pronounced, and the moderately stiff heel counter works well to cradle your foot, especially during heel strikes.
• Sole Flare: There’s a touch more sole flare in the forefoot, which helps keep your foot centred and adds to the shoe’s overall stability.

These features classify the Gel Cumulus 27 as a stable neutral shoe, ideal for runners who like a little extra support without more moderate levels of stability like the Asics GT-2000 13.

Check the price on Road Runner Sports:

Performance & Use Cases

Both the Cumulus 26 and Cumulus 27 are excellent all-rounders. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and versatile enough for a variety of workouts. But let’s break down their specific strengths.

1. Long Runs and Easy Runs
   Both models excel here, but the Cumulus 27 feels slightly more stable, thanks to the improved midfoot width and enhanced sidewalls.
2. Recovery Runs
   The FF Blast+ cushioning in both models is soft and energy-efficient, making them ideal for recovery days when your legs need a break.
3. Beginner Runners
   If you’re new to running, either model is a fantastic choice. The slight tweaks in the 27 give it a bit of an edge, especially for those who need a more accommodating fit in the toe box.
4. Uptempo Workouts
   While neither shoe is specifically designed for speed, the slightly lighter and more responsive build of the Cumulus 26 may be a better choice for short bursts of uptempo work.

Not sure if the Cumulus suits your running style? You might also want to consider the Hoka Clifton 9 for a lightweight daily trainer or the Brooks Launch 11 for something more affordable and uptempo-focused.

Final Thoughts: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

If you’re currently running in the Cumulus 26 and loving it, you might not find the changes in the Cumulus 27 revolutionary. However, if you’ve struggled with fit, found the 26 a bit narrow, or want a touch more stability, the 27 is definitely worth a try.

For beginner runners, long-distance enthusiasts, or those looking for a comfortable shoe for recovery runs, both models are solid options. The Cumulus 27 just edges ahead with its updated fit and slightly more stable platform.

Have Questions? Let’s Chat!

If you’ve tried either of these shoes, I’d love to hear your thoughts—drop a comment below! And if you’re considering picking up a pair, we’ve included links in the article. Using these links helps support the channel without affecting the price you pay.

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